Athletes’ pull-outs disappointing, says Saina

Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal fears that mass pull out by top athletes from the Commonwealth Games (CWG) will rob spectators of a chance to witness some great contests.

"I'm disappointed with the pull-out of some top athletes from the Delhi Games. If competition is not there it does not feel good as people come to see good contests," Saina said on the sidelines of a promotional event here today.

She said she was pained to read and hear about these negative publicity. "I am sad and it feels bad to hear these on television. But I cannot comment about the Games village as I am yet to see it,” Saina said.

In what should bring cheers to the ears of the under-fire Games Organising Committee chief Suresh Kalmadi, Saina also gave a big thumbs up to the badminton venue. “I have played there and it’s a top class arena,” she said.

Talking about India’s chances at the CWG, Saina said the hosts are well poised to win a medal in each of the six events in badminton in Delhi.

“We have all trained very hard in Hyderabad for the CWG and I’m confident we have a chance to win a medal in every event we participate in,” said the world No.3.

Six gold medals and an equal number of silver and bronze are on offer in badminton which is to be held at the Siri Fort Complex along with squash.

Saina said the main challenge for India would come from Malaysia, Singapore and Scotland.

“We can expect tough challenge from Malaysia, Singapore and Scotland,” said the Hisar-born shuttler who is the brightest medal hope in badminton at the Games.

Talking about her own chances, Saina promised she would do her best.

“I cannot promise a medal though I will be aiming for the gold. But I will give it my best shot,” she said.